DLNews LGBTQ+:

In the Malaysian state of Johor, disturbing news is causing horror in the mostly hidden LGBTQ community: the first "Islamic rehabilitation center" for homosexuals is set to open its doors next year!

This crazy plan for the Southeast Asian country was announced by the chairman of the Committee for Islamic Religious Affairs in the region, Fared Khalid—another grim chapter for the queer community in the state of 33.57 million inhabitants.

The center is to be "operational" next year.

Malaysia, which has a Muslim population of around 60 percent, relies heavily on Islam not only in its legal system but also in its political institutions. The planned center is to be built in the Malaysian state of Johor and gives an idea of the threatening times that could lie ahead for the LGBTQ community.

Preparations for offices and dormitories for both men and women are currently in full swing, reports Khalid. "The center is expected to be fully operational by July next year."

What exactly will happen in this sinister facility and who will be housed there can only be guessed at. The fact is gays and lesbians are to be "treated" here using strange methods so that they "become" heterosexual again.

Malaysia's treatment of queer people is in stark contrast to its progressive neighboring countries. While Thailand is considered a pioneer of LGBT acceptance and Singapore legalized homosexuality as early as 2022, Malaysia remains stuck in the last century.

What are conversion procedures?

Conversion procedures ("homo-healing") aim to change or "heal" a person's homosexual orientation and convert it into heterosexual or asexual behavior. Common prayers, exorcism of demons, and oil anointing - standard methods in therapies to cure homosexuality!

Psychotherapy, although a widely recognized form of treatment, can have alarming consequences for the person being treated. Various studies have revealed that it can exacerbate the inner conflict of the patient, leading to a range of adverse effects such as stress disorders, anxiety, mood swings, depression, and suicidal tendencies. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the potential risks of psychotherapy before opting for this form of treatment.

LGBT in Malaysia

Homosexuality is illegal in Malaysia, and the relevant laws are supported by Article 377B of the Malaysian Penal Code. This prohibits "sexual intercourse against the order of nature." Although the statute is mainly aimed at homosexual acts, it is also used for other forms of non-heteronormative behavior.

The LGBT community in Malaysia faces discrimination and stigmatization daily. There are numerous reports of arrests, harassment, and discrimination against LGBT people, both by society and by state institutions. Public discussion on LGBT issues is also generally characterized by prejudice and a lack of understanding.

About Malaysia:

Continent: Asia

Capital: Kuala Lumpur

Official language: Malay

Area: 127 525.68 Square Miles

Population: 31.7 million

Form of government: Federal, parliamentary

elective monarchy

Head of state: King Abdullah Shah

Head of government: Tun Mahathir bin

Mohamad

Currency: Malaysian ringgit (RM)

GDP per capita: 8720 Euromala